The Two Popes Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Two Popes.
The Two Popes Ending Explained: Frustrated with the direction of the church, Cardinal Bergoglio requests permission to retire in 2012 from Pope Benedict. Directed by Fernando Meirelles, this 2019 drama film stars Jonathan Pryce (Jorge Bergoglio / Pope Francis), alongside Anthony Hopkins as Joseph Ratzinger / Pope Benedict XVI, Juan Minujín as Young Jorge Bergoglio, Luis Gnecco as Cardinal Hummes. Rated 7.5/10 by audiences, the conclusion brings the story to a satisfying close.
What Happens at the End of The Two Popes?
Frustrated with the direction of the church, Cardinal Bergoglio requests permission to retire in 2012 from Pope Benedict. Instead, facing scandal and self-doubt, the introspective Pope Benedict summons his harshest critic and future successor to Rome to reveal a secret that would shake the foundations of the Catholic Church.
Fernando Meirelles's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Jonathan Pryce (Jorge Bergoglio / Pope Francis)'s journey. Instead, facing scandal and self-doubt, the introspective Pope Benedict summons his harshest critic and future successor to Rome to reveal a secret that would shake the foundations of the Catholic Church.
How Does Jonathan Pryce (Jorge Bergoglio / Pope Francis)'s Story End?
- Jonathan Pryce: Jonathan Pryce's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with Fernando Meirelles delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 2h 5m runtime.
- Anthony Hopkins (Joseph Ratzinger / Pope Benedict XVI): Anthony Hopkins's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Juan Minujín (Young Jorge Bergoglio): Juan Minujín's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
Is The Two Popes Based on a True Story?
Yes — The Two Popes draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Fernando Meirelles has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.
What Does the Ending of The Two Popes Mean?
The ending of The Two Popes ties together the narrative threads involving Jonathan Pryce. Fernando Meirelles chooses a conclusion that prioritizes thematic consistency over surprise, resulting in an ending that rewards viewers who engaged with the story's central themes. Based on 3,132 audience ratings, the consensus is that the ending is powerful and memorable.